Mayor's Christmas Charity

The Mayor’s Christmas Charity is an annual initiative led by Mayor Amy Eden, dedicated to supporting local families and senior community members who need help making their Christmas a little more festive. For 30 years, the charity has worked to ensure that everyone in the Cairns community can experience the joy, dignity and connection that Christmas brings.

Established in 1996 by a passionate group of community leaders including the late former Mayor Tom Pyne, former Councillors Jeff Pezzutti and Deidre Ford, former Council CEO Terry Moore, and John Desmond Murray and Margaret Young, the charity began with a simple but powerful vision — to make Christmas brighter for those doing it tough. In its first year, the Appeal raised $35,000 and delivered 347 hampers to local families in need.

Three decades later, the need within the community has grown significantly. In 2018, the charity received 598 hamper applications, rising to 950 applications by 2023. Behind every application is a family, an individual, or a senior community member facing hardship during what should be the most joyful time of year.

To celebrate this incredible 30-year milestone, the Mayor’s Christmas Charity is launching the Mayor’s Christmas Charity Giving Tree.

This year, community members, businesses and organisations are invited to make an even greater impact. Anyone who purchases 30 hampers during this 30th year of giving will receive a gold star on the Giving Tree, proudly recognising their contribution and generosity.

More than a symbol, the Giving Tree represents a lasting legacy of compassion, community spirit and giving back.

There are many ways to get involved:

• Donate directly to support those in need using the link below
• Attend our annual signature fundraising event to celebrate and raise funds for the community
• Partner with us at events to make a bigger community impact
• Support the Giving Tree initiative

Every contribution helps create a brighter Christmas for local families and senior community members who need it most.

If you would like further information about the Mayor’s Christmas Charity or how to donate, please contact the events team council.events@cairns.qld.gov.au.